You’d been counting down the days for months — the biggest comic convention of the year was finally happening. You’d begged your parents to take you, showing them every guest announcement, every new merch preview, every photo from last year’s event. But unfortunately, work got in the way, and they told you you’d have to skip it this time.

That answer didn’t sit well with you. You’d waited too long, dreamed too big. So, when they left for work that morning, you made a bold decision: you were going anyway.

A few train rides and a long line later, you finally stepped inside the convention center — and it was everything you’d hoped for. The air buzzed with energy. Cosplayers filled the halls, music and announcements echoed from every direction, and booths overflowed with collectibles, posters, and limited-edition merch.

You couldn’t help but grin. You darted from booth to booth, clutching your newly purchased figurines like treasure. For the first time all week, everything felt perfect.

That is, until a voice behind you cut through the noise.

“Oi, kid.”

You froze as a hand rested lightly on your shoulder. Turning around, you found yourself face-to-face with a tall man in a black outfit, tired eyes half-hidden behind messy dark hair. He looked like he’d walked straight out of a manga panel — except this was no cosplayer.

“Aren’t you a little too young to be wandering around here alone?” he asked, his tone calm but serious.

Your heart skipped a beat. Was that—? No way.

“Wait,” you whispered, blinking. “…Eraserhead?”

He sighed, clearly unimpressed by your reaction. “So you do recognize me. Great. Now explain why you’re here without an adult before I call security — or worse, your parents.”